Highspeed asked the opinion of several cinema followers to name the great films of six National Artists (directors) and they came up with this list. Initially, it was really “greatest” films but we eventually settled for “great.” This columnist was part of the very informal selection.

Of course, aside from Gloria Romero, Rosa Rosal, Vilma Santos, and Nora Aunor, there are other stars whose life and times (and loves) ought to be written about. This is in reaction to reader’s who suggest more biographies of stars.

A showbiz insider described the directors of the ‘70s as Vanishing Breed. Gone are Lino Brocka, Ishmael Bernal, Joey Gosiengfiao, Mario O’ Hara, Danny Zialcita, Celso Ad Castillo, and Marilou Diaz Abaya. And the latest to go, Gil Portes. Yes, all gone to a stress-free world, where there are no playdates and deadlines to meet.